OFFICIATING SIGNALS &

MECHANICS HANDBOOK

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Table of Contents

Page 2 Foreword by Tim Shiels

Page 3 Intent & Purpose of this Document

Page 4 The Importance of Good Signals & Mechanics

Page 5 Success & Consistency with Signals

Page 6 Mechanics Sequences for Specific Situations

Page 7 Preventive Officiating

Pages 8-9 Pre-Match Responsibilities

Page 10 Referee Signals (NCAA Approved Hand Signals)

Pages 11-14 Official’s Mechanics in Neutral Situations

Pages 14-16 Official’s Mechanics in Mat Wrestling Situations

Pages 16-17 Official’s Mechanics in Nearfall Situations

Pages 17-20 Responsibilities of Second Officials

Pages 20-21 Mechanics of Injury, Recovery & Concussion Timeouts

Pages 21-25 Stalling – General Guidelines, Neutral, Offensive, Defensive

Pages 25-26 Questioning, Control of Mat, Unsportsmanlike Conduct, Hands to the

Face

Pages 26-27 Conclusion

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Foreword by Tim Shiels NCAA Wrestling National Coordinator

Officials, NEW, for the upcoming season, is the much-requested Officiating Signals and Mechanics Handbook. This "living document" can be accessed and printed on Arbiter Center Mat, will be updated periodically, and complemented with video clips throughout the season. Regardless of officiating experience, this manual, along with the new 2021-22 Rules Book and updated Case Book, is invaluable. A special thanks to all the Division I, II, and III Assignment Coordinators for their contributions and input, and to Matt Sorochinsky, Nick Grosso, and Kevin Linich for their tireless work in ensuring the Officiating Handbook and Manual was ready for the upcoming season. Officials, I look forward to seeing you on the mat in November. Let's make the 2021-22 season our best ever! Sincerely, Tim Shiels NCAA Wrestling National Coordinator

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INTENT & PURPOSE OF THIS DOCUMENT

This Mechanics Handbook is written to provide every NCAA Wrestling Official consistent

explanation of the signals, procedures, and mechanics while officiating. The Handbook is

another tool to help sharpen your officiating skills. Referring to this Handbook often to

study, learn, and master the mechanics and signals will only help you on your officiating

journey.

This will be a living document that will continue to evolve with additional material and

information being added over time.

Only the signals shown on Page 98 of the NCAA Wrestling Rules Book are acceptable.

Officials should avoid making up their own signals and mechanics. Consistency is critical

among Officials.

To be a successful NCAA Official, the goal should be to develop consistency in all areas

from the beginning to the end of the season. The ultimate goal is to make the correct call

every time. Every match deserves the same respect and effort.

Wrestling Officials have the responsibility of conducting bouts in a dignified, professional,

and unbiased manner and shall deal with all situations in adherence to the rules, in the

spirit of good sportsmanship, and in the best interest of the wrestlers and the sport. The

character and conduct of Officials must be above reproach. When in uniform or onsite, an

Official shall not fraternize with competitors and/or coaches.

Officials should keep themselves prepared both physically and mentally to administer

bouts.

Officials shall enforce the rules firmly and fairly in both letter and spirit in such a way that

attention is drawn to the wrestlers rather than to themselves.

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THE IMPORTANCE OF GOOD SIGNALS & MECHANICS

Signals are an Official’s best means of communication. The better we communicate, the

better the flow of the match and the less confusion for the wrestlers, coaches, and fans.

Having good and clear signals allows everyone in the arena to understand what just

occurred on the mat. The wrestlers are the story, and the Officials are the reporters.

1. Know the Signals

One of the few things an Official can control is the execution and delivery of the

signals and mechanics. Knowing the signal that needs to be executed in every

situation is critical, so you don’t have to think about it. This is achieved by

practicing your signals to the point they become muscle memory. When an Official

eliminates their signals from their thought process, it allows the Official to focus

more on other areas.

2. Suggested Ways to Improve Appearance of Your Signals

Practice in front of a mirror so you know what they look like.

Watch yourself on video.

Time your counts on a stopwatch.

Work on being loud when verbalizing calls.

Have a trusted person or mentor watch and provide feedback on your signals and

mechanics. Examples may include: “arms are not straight or not extended,”

“Nearfall was not at 45 degrees,” “not rotating your points overhead,” “fingers are

apart on Stop signal and Neutral signal,” etc.

3. Timing is Everything What makes an Official’s signals elite is how and when they deliver the signals. The

timing and consistency of when the signal is executed can be easily affected if the

Official is out of position or if the Official is overthinking. It doesn’t matter how

good the Official’s signals are if they are being put up too early, too late, or at the

wrong time.

POSITION • PATIENCE • POISE • PRESENTATION

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SUCCESS & CONSISTENCY WITH SIGNALS

After Officials put in the work to make their signals muscle memory, there are other

principles that will allow the Official to further develop their signals. Below are those

principles, which are listed in order of importance. They are all important and all work

together with the goal of getting each call correct, delivering a sharp signal, and clearly

communicating the call.

1. Position

Being in proper position to make the call should be the primary focus. Working hard to

stay in the proper position affords the Official the opportunity to slow things down

and have great timing when making calls. If the Official is out of position and rushing,

then it can negatively affect the quality and delivery of the signals. You’re only as good

as your position!

2. Patience

When an Official maintains good position and they are not too close or chasing the

action, it allows the Official to be patient when letting situations develop, especially in

scramble situations. Patience also promotes proper timing when making a call and

delivering the signals.

3. Poise

The level of comfort and confidence in each situation can mean the difference in

getting the call right or wrong. Achieving principles one and two should give the

Official confidence to relax and be poised in all situations. Being poised also allows for

smoother signals.

4. Presentation

The timing, delivery, and execution of your signals.

POSITION yourself to see the call.

Once you’re in position be PATIENT.

Remain POISED as the situation develops.

PRESENT your signals sharply and smoothly.

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MECHANICS SEQUENCES FOR SPECIFIC SITUATIONS

1. Maintain a loud and clear whistle throughout the match. Typically, the start whistle is

quicker and shorter than the stoppage whistle.

2. Hand motion for starts (Neutral and Referee’s Position) should be the same.

3. Hold points high and rotate your hand.

4. Keep your fingers tight with your thumb tucked.

5. Do not put your hands on your knees or your hips.

6. Use the Stop Signal (Signal #2) any time you stop the action for something other than

an Out of Bounds call.

a. Stalemate – stop the match then indicate the stalemate signal (Signal #16) with

thumbs up and hands against your chest.

b. Potentially Dangerous – stop the match then indicate color of Potentially

Dangerous (Signal #15).

c. Penalties/Infractions – stop the match then indicate infraction and

corresponding points (See book for proper signal).

d. Stalling on Offensive Wrestler – stop the match then signal the stall (Signal #18)

on the Offensive wrestler. Only exception here would be a Held Stall Call.

7. Award points first in the following instances:

a. Reversal – award the Reversal points before signaling the Reversal (Signal #20).

b. Escape – award the Escape point then use the Neutral Signal (Signal #8).

c. Nearfall – award the Nearfall points prior to bringing hand across to far

shoulder (Signal #23).

8. Neutral Out of Bounds – use the following sequence:

a. Blow your whistle while signaling Out of Bounds (Signal #11)

b. Indicate whether there was Action, Backing or Pushing/Pulling with proper color

i. If Action, then indicate Action using Signal #12 followed by the Neutral

Signal (#8).

ii. If Stalling for Backing, then indicate Backing using Signal #30 followed by

the Stalling Signal #18, then the Neutral Signal (#8).

iii. If Stalling for Pushing/Pulling, then indicate Pushing/Pulling using Signal

#13 followed by Stalling Signal #18, then the Neutral Signal (#8).

9. Choice of Position/Disc Mechanics

a. Figure out a system that works for you and is easy to track choice of position

during dual meets.

b. Some Officials keep the disc in the front pockets while others use their back

pockets or even their wristbands.

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c. You do not need to use your disc to indicate who has choice of position. You are

wearing wristbands to indicate who has choice of position.

d. When you flip the disc stay in the 10-foot circle, leave it on the mat until after

the choices have been made, then pick it up and put it in your pocket.

PREVENTIVE OFFICIATING

Officials may use tactics to prevent certain situations from taking place or from becoming

Potentially Dangerous and/or Illegal. Some examples of preventive officiating are listed

below.

1. Using simple commands such as the following (never single out one wrestler):

a. “Action”

b. “Center” or “Work Center” or “Action Center”

c. “Offense”

d. “Improve”

e. “No Control” or “Still Neutral”

f. “Green is in Control” or “Red is in Control”

g. “Contact” or “Engage”

h. “Fingers”

i. “Keep it Legal” or “Keep it Safe”

2. Never turn your back on the wrestlers. Always keep your eyes on the wrestlers and

stay in between them after an Out of Bounds situation.

3. Sometimes a stoppage in the match is necessary, if you feel the action is moving

toward an aggressive state by either or both wrestlers. Stop the match and indicate to

both wrestlers that that type of behavior is not acceptable and will not be tolerated.

4. Staying in between the wrestlers on Neutral starts can prevent false starts. You may

also point to the starting lines, so the wrestlers understand you’re not blowing the

whistle until they’re on the line.

5. Move in closer when Offensive wrestler is applying various pinning combinations such

as Arm Bars, Bow & Arrow, or Blair Ride to be in position to prevent a Potentially

Dangerous situation or to prevent a hold from becoming Illegal.

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PRE-MATCH RESPONSIBILITIES

Arrive onsite 60-75 minutes early; give yourself ample travel time to venue.

Locate Home Management and ask to be taken to your locker room.

Inspect mat area/video review system setup to ensure compliance. Notify Home

Management of any issues.

Speak with the table workers and timers to see if there are any questions.

Locate coaches of each team and ask when they would like you to address their team.

Pre-Match Discussion with Coaches & Athletes

Keep it Simple, Keep it Short - two to three minutes at most.

Confirm starting weight and choice of position in second period.

Ask if anyone has any special equipment.

Two most important things: safety of the athletes and getting the calls right.

Discuss major rule changes. Hands to the Face, Interlocking Fingers.

Neutral Out of Bounds – explain potential outcomes (1 of 3 calls to be made).

Traditional Stalling – emphasis on how you get to the edge, etc.

Neutral Danger Zone – beyond Reaction Time.

Drop-Down/Side Headlock counts.

The Offensive wrestler is responsible for attempting to return Defensive wrestler.

Emphasize Reaction Time in all situations except Rear Standing Hand Touch Takedowns

and Locked Hands while in Offensive Position on the mat.

Explain protocol for Coach’s Challenge – challenge needs to be specific and in a timely

manner.

Discuss your starting sequence in Referee’s Position. Reduce Cautions.

Let them know you plan to utilize all available resources to get the calls right.

Ask if they have any questions. If they do, then address them and move on.

Thank them for their time and wish them good luck.

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Discussion with Second Official

Be sure to discuss expectations with your Second Official (SO), if you have one.

Communication is key. Talk to one another during the match.

Talking Points

1. Clock is number one priority – start and stop, riding time.

2. Stay 180⁰ from Lead Official (LO), if possible.

3. Look for backside violations that LO cannot see.

4. Look for Nearfall if action moves away quickly.

5. Cover front side if action turns away from LO.

6. Location during timeouts.

7. Location for Neutral starts and Referee’s Position starts.

8. Location at the conclusion of each match (top of key).

9. Discuss how to handle disagreements on calls.

10. SO to remain in circle with wrestlers during coach’s conference at table.

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OFFICIAL’S MECHANICS IN NEUTRAL SITUATIONS

1. Wrestler’s Position in Neutral Start

a. Both wrestlers must place one foot on their respective starting line and the other

foot on or behind the line or the line extended. Don’t start unless both wrestlers

have a foot on the line. Point to the line to ensure this. Eliminate unnecessary

Cautions.

b. Hands and/or forehead cannot touch the opponent.

c. Both wrestlers must be stationary until the whistle sounds (no rolling starts).

d. It is not recommended for the Official to shake the hands of the wrestlers unless

they initiate shaking hands with you.

2. Neutral Starting Mechanics

a. The Official should step in between the wrestlers with outstretched arms between

the red and green starting lines. Make sure this position does not interfere with the

wrestlers, however.

b. The Official should be stationary and facing the scorer’s table. Point at and make

eye contact with the timekeeper.

c. Make sure you have visual acknowledgment from timekeeper prior to blowing the

whistle.

d. Verbally “set” the wrestlers.

e. Sound your whistle loud and sharp while simultaneously making a visual arm

motion to start the match (Signal #1).

f. Move out quickly to a proper calling distance (10-15 feet) and adjust your position

according to where the action goes. Glance up momentarily to ensure that the

clock has properly started. Always keep both wrestlers in your line of sight as you

back out.

g. It is recommended that the whistle remain in the front of the Official’s mouth

unless giving verbal commands to the wrestlers – not on side of the mouth.

3. Neutral Standing Position

a. Situate yourself so that you are far enough away from the wrestling to observe the

action and not interfere with sudden changes in position. Move in closer when

identifying Potentially Dangerous and/or potentially Illegal maneuvers.

b. A range of 10-15 feet is suggested. Find your comfortable space. A wider range

allows for a greater perspective.

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c. Know how various Takedowns finish so you can position yourself to stay out of the

way and to observe control as it is established.

d. Continuously work to improve your position and situate yourself between both

wrestlers as they face each other to ensure you can move to either side in scoring

situations and to see the hand fighting.

e. Anticipate position. Understand where action should go next.

f. Do not chase the action; stop and let the action come back to you. Oftentimes

moving counter to the wrestlers’ rotation is more effective.

g. Change levels and be mobile in order to be in proper position to observe

Potentially Dangerous and/or Illegal maneuvers; bend knees – drop hips.

h. It is important to loudly verbalize the award of Takedown points. Move in and

lower your level. This allows the scoring wrestler to release the locked hands

and/or avoid a drop-down count. Verbalize who is in control.

i. Award points in a confident manner using approved hand signals. Arm should be

extended overhead while rotating the points (Signal #24).

j. Eye contact should be maintained strictly on the wrestlers. Trust the table team to

do their job correctly and keep your focus on the wrestlers.

4. Neutral Boundary Line Situations

a. Beat the wrestlers to the boundary line. The Official should be in position to

observe the location of each wrestler. Position yourself so that you can view the

action and the boundary line to see when the wrestlers break the cylinder.

Maintain proper distance and keep moving. The Second Official should be in a

position to see if either wrestler touches off the mat surface.

b. Be patient; do not overly anticipate an Out of Bounds situation occurring. Control

your whistle until you are sure a situation finishes Out of Bounds.

c. Call Out of Bounds by the letter of the rule and be consistent from call to call. Use

proper hand mechanics with simultaneous whistle (Signal #11). No stop sign is

necessary.

d. Always keep safety in mind. You may have to sound a premature whistle when

safety is a concern. For example, if walls, bleachers, chairs, tables, platforms, etc.

are nearby.

e. When possible, award the earned points before sounding your whistle. Award

points in the proper sequence as they occurred.

f. The Official may verbally request that both wrestlers “work center” but keep

comments short and refrain from “coaching.”

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5. Neutral Scramble Situations

a. Continuously work to maintain the best possible position to observe control, non-

control or Neutral Danger.

b. Be patient. Let the action unfold and remain calm.

c. Take a deep breath and take a couple steps back. Officials tend to move in closer

when the action picks up. Follow the action and work to anticipate where it’s

going.

d. Remember, there is Reaction Time in all situations except Hand Touch Takedowns

and Locked Hands on the mat by the Offensive wrestler.

e. It’s better to be a half second late versus a half second early when awarding points

in all situations.

f. When control is gained, loudly verbalize the awarded points.

g. Likewise, verbalize no control with proper mechanics if scramble remains Neutral.

Show the No Control signal (Signal #9) every 8-10 seconds. Avoid holding the No

Control signal for prolonged periods of time. Being verbal is critical.

h. In many scramble situations it is obvious that control has not been established.

However, when control is close to being established, then that is when the No

Control signal should be used. The goal is to not over-utilize the No Control signal.

i. Circle in the opposite direction to catch up to the action.

6. Neutral Danger Zone Situations

a. The wrestler who is in Neutral Danger needs to be there beyond Reaction Time. Let

the dust settle and be patient.

b. Move with the action and maintain the best possible position to see all angles of

the scramble. Position yourself to be able to see the potential Neutral Danger Zone

situation so that you can see when the wrestler breaks 90 degrees.

c. Be mobile and be able to change directions quickly.

d. Any time the following criteria are met in a non-control situation, then Neutral

Danger applies: wrestler’s pinning area must be within 4 inches of the mat; a

shoulder down and pinning area at a 90-degree angle or less; a high bridge or on

both elbows.

e. Once the wrestler is stuck in Neutral Danger beyond Reaction Time, the Official

needs to clearly and loudly announce “DANGER” - and when possible, use the

visual indication - followed by the color that corresponds to the wrestler. Example:

“DANGER, RED”.

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f. Patience is key in this situation. If the wrestler is still in Neutral Danger beyond

Reaction Time and after you announce DANGER followed by a 3-count, then you

award the Takedown to the opponent.

g. Indicate who is in control after a Neutral Danger Zone TD has been awarded using

Signal #10.

h. Announcing “DANGER” is critical while also indicating the NDZ situation with the

visual mechanic. When possible, the verbal and visual mechanics should be

simultaneous, but the verbal announcement is the most critical.

i. If the wrestler who gave up the Neutral Danger Zone TD is in Nearfall criteria, then

the Official can begin counting Nearfall after the TD is awarded.

j. Wrestlers may move in and out of Neutral Danger and, if this happens, the verbal

announcement and count need to be restarted.

k. If a Neutral Danger Zone TD has been awarded and neither wrestler can improve

their position, then a stalemate should be called to avoid the Offensive wrestler

gaining Advantage Time in a situation where neither wrestler can improve.

l. Note: if both wrestlers are in Neutral Danger, then there is no announcement or

count.

m. Note: in reality, a Neutral Danger Zone TD situation should take about 5-6 seconds.

OFFICIAL’S MECHANICS IN MAT WRESTLING SITUATIONS

1. Start of the Referee's Position

a. The hand movement should be the same as the Neutral start of the match.

b. As with other hand signals, the hand motion is also for the table, coaches, and

fans.

c. Verbally “set” each wrestler, pause and then blow the whistle loud and clear!

d. If your matches have an inordinate number of false starts, it is possible the Official

is causing the problem.

e. Be stationary and alternate positions on the mat to avoid rolling starts.

2. Referee’s Position (12 o’clock is in reference to the heads of wrestlers)

a. The Official should be at an angle (right or left of center) to the wrestlers. If the

wrestlers are at 12 o'clock, the Official should be at 10 or 2 o’clock.

b. Although altering sides may help, the Official should be aware of the tendencies of

the wrestlers throughout the match and set up accordingly.

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c. The Official should stand. This gives the Official the ability to see the placement of

the Offensive wrestler's head on the mid-line, the palm on the navel, the palm on

the elbow, and the back foot. (Official may lower level to view the palm.)

d. Do not be out on the edge of the circle; that is too far away. Stay in between the

10-foot circle and the Out of Bounds line.

e. After the Defensive wrestler gets in position and is “set,” the Official should get

into ready position. Next, the Official will direct the Offensive wrestler to "cover."

Once legal and stationary, the Official will verbally “set” the Offensive wrestler

and then start the match with a simultaneous hand signal and whistle.

f. Remember to pause for at least one second before sounding the whistle.

3. Movement as Wrestling Continues

a. After the start and throughout the mat wrestling, the Official wants to be primarily

at the head and hands of the wrestlers, suggested 8-12 feet from the wrestlers.

b. As the Offensive wrestler breaks his opponent down and applies bars, wings,

power halves or comes closer to Nearfalls, the Official may move closer in position

to stop Potentially Dangerous holds or look for Nearfalls and Falls.

c. Vary distance from wrestlers depending on the situation. The Official should be in

position to block or stop Potentially Dangerous situations BEFORE they become

Illegal.

d. Being verbal here is critical to allow the wrestlers to adjust and prevent holds from

becoming Illegal or Potentially Dangerous.

4. When the Defensive Wrestler Comes to a Standing Position

a. As the Defensive wrestler makes it to their feet, the Official should come to the

head and hands of the wrestlers but be ready to change directions quickly.

b. The Official should pay particular attention to hand control to determine if the

Offensive wrestler can attempt to return the Defensive wrestler. Baiting is a

Technical Violation and should be called when it presents itself.

c. Indicate who is in control with proper hand mechanics. Be verbal with “Improve.”

d. The Offensive wrestler has the responsibility to attempt to return the Defensive

wrestler to the mat, as per NCAA rules. If they are making no legitimate attempt,

then they shall be called for Stalling. Do not stop the match when making the

Stalling call in this situation.

e. If the Official feels that the Offensive wrestler is incapable of attempting to return

the Defensive wrestler and/or neither wrestler can improve, then a Stalemate is

warranted.

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f. If the Offensive wrestler is attempting to return the opponent to the mat, then

there is no Stalling – the key being a legitimate attempt.

g. In a rear standing position, the Official must anticipate the Offensive wrestler’s

movement in order to maintain best possible position to see all scoring situations.

5. On the Out of Bounds Line

a. The Official should position themselves on the edge in order to view the

heads/hands of the wrestlers while also maintaining a good view of the boundary

line to see if or when they break the cylinder. Maintain enough space to see the

whole situation.

b. The Official should continue to move and improve position to view best angle.

c. If Officials need to change positions on the edge, then switch to the outside of the

wrestlers with SO on the outside. Do not switch on the inside on the mat.

d. Note: if there is no significant action taking place on the edge, then you may restart

the wrestlers back in the center.

OFFICIAL’S MECHANICS IN NEARFALL SITUATIONS

1. Directly from the Feet

a. Follow the flow of the action. When the back of the Defensive wrestler is exposed -

beyond Reaction Time - work to be down on the mat in the best vantage position

to view both shoulders/scapulae. It may not be toward the head and shoulders.

b. In many cases the Official may have to cut off the mat and, therefore, should take

the best angle possible to maintain proper position when the action goes from feet

to back.

c. Continuously improving your position while on your feet should help to eliminate

having to chase the action when it moves quickly in another direction. In some

instances, it is more beneficial to move counter to the wrestling action and let it

come to you.

d. Your first Nearfall count does not start until the Defensive wrestler is in Nearfall

criteria beyond Reaction Time.

e. A verbal and visual count should be used whenever possible.

f. Do not place or reach a hand under the scapulae or shoulders of the Defensive

wrestler.

g. The Official should continue to move to view best angle to see the Nearfall or Fall.

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h. Look underneath, while also looking at action happening around the face and

hands.

2. From the Mat

a. As Defensive wrestler is getting put into Nearfall criteria, start lowering your body.

Get in a ready position to see when the Nearfall criteria is met. Official should stay

in a mobile position while maintaining distance because the direction of the action

may change often.

b. Your first Nearfall count does not start until the Defensive wrestler is in Nearfall

criteria beyond Reaction Time.

c. Once criteria have been met, give a clear, precise verbal and visual count:

“thousand one, thousand two, thousand three, thousand four.” Visual count should

be with arm up and out at a 45-degree angle with fingers tight together.

d. Verbal count is critical for both wrestlers, while the visual signal is important for

the coaches, fans and table.

e. The Official should be down on the mat when the Nearfall happens and understand

when a Nearfall is still the same situation so as not to award the Nearfall points

prematurely.

3. Do Not Make Up Hand Signals

a. DO NOT make a hand gesture with fingers and thumb showing how close the back

is to the mat.

b. DO NOT make a hand signal with a hand straight up and down symbolizing a 90-

degree angle.

c. DO NOT wave a hand back and forth to indicate that a wrestler moved in and out

of Nearfall.

d. DO NOT shake your head yes or no to indicate if wrestler is in and out of Nearfall

criteria.

RESPONSIBILITIES OF SECOND OFFICIALS

1. The Second Official (SO) is the first on and last off the mat. Be active and assist with

the same latitude of mobility as the Lead Official (LO). Movement and communication

should be constant and are the keys for success.

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2. One of the SO’s primary responsibilities is the time. Make sure the clock starts and

stops on the LO’s whistle. The SO is also responsible for knowing the score, confirming

that points get posted to the scoreboard, who scored first, who has Stalling warnings,

making sure the riding time starts and stops, and who has choice at the start of each

period. Indicate to the LO who has choice of position in between each period.

3. The LO always passes on the inside path when crossing, and the SO should be no

closer than the LO. The SO has freedom to move to seek their best position to

complement the LO making calls and should move and be in position to see the action

and/or potential violations. Anticipation is essential for the SO. Drop to a lower level

to look underneath in tie-up and headlock situations.

4. In Referee’s Position starts, the SO should position themselves perpendicular to the

LO.

5. The SO should not yell across the mat; rather, move to circle behind the LO and make

your statement, or move in toward the LO to voice your opinion of the situation.

6. If the SO questions a situation, both Officials should conference at the appropriate

time and away from coaches. Cover your mouth. Never be afraid to voice an opinion

to the LO.

7. When disagreeing with a call, the SO needs to be direct and clearly communicate with

the LO to improve the efficiency of the match. Approach the LO in a calm, rational

manner and let the LO know you’d like to consult. When possible, change the call on

the mat instead of going to video review – if you’re adamant about the call needing to

be changed. If the call changes, then be prepared to provide the match time and/or

riding time information.

8. Bring infractions to the LO’s immediate attention. Cover the front side (when action

rotates toward you) and wait for the LO to catch up to the action before rotating 180°.

9. If a Coach’s Challenge Brick gets thrown, then the SO should immediately look at the

clock to check the match and riding time. It is critical in any potential Dead Time

situation that the SO be able to provide accurate and reliable clock information.

10. Police the designated coaches’ area. Do not allow yourself to be addressed by

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coaches and never communicate with a coach. Direct the coach to the LO and keep

moving.

11. Assist the LO with injury, recovery, and concussion protocols (discuss

responsibilities before the match).

12. On boundary situations, be in position to see when the action goes Out of Bounds. If

the wrestlers go out and the LO does not see it, then SO may yell “Out.” If the

wrestlers touch off the mat surface, then SO may yell “Out” so everyone

knows why.

13. Be in position to watch the clock with wrestlers in your field of vision during the last

10 seconds of the period/match.

14. If the match goes into Overtime, then the SO should know who scored first, who has

Stalling warnings and/or other penalties, and who will get choice of position first in

any Rideout periods.

SECOND OFFICIAL’S RESPONSIBILITIES IN NEARFALL SITUATIONS

1. The SO should work to stay in the best possible position to see any potential

infractions, to watch for Out of Bounds, and to watch the clock.

2. If there is a feet-to-back situation or if a Nearfall situation moves quickly away from

the LO, then the SO should be prepared to provide a verbal Nearfall count until the LO

is in position to see the Nearfall.

3. Make sure the Defensive wrestler isn’t doing anything Illegal, the Offensive wrestler

isn’t doing anything Illegal, or to see if any hold becomes Illegal through wrestling

action.

4. If an Illegal move occurs, the SO needs to notify the FO. The decision is predicated on

if it became Illegal by the Defensive wrestler or the Offensive wrestler. Then the LO

will make the correct call.

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5. The SO may count down “4, 3, 2, 1, Time” in Nearfall or potential Fall situations at the

end of periods but should avoid using hand signals or fingers to count down.

6. Advantages of the SO watching the clock are as follows:

a. To see if enough time was remaining to score either 2 Nearfall or 4 four Nearfall

points (2 seconds or 4 seconds).

b. To help with the “Fall call” if the wrestler had the Fall before the clock ran out.

Note: You are an officiating team, and your goal should always be to keep the wrestlers

safe and to get the calls correct. This only becomes possible if both Officials are fully

engaged and communicate clearly and freely with one another throughout the match.

MECHANICS OF INJURY, RECOVERY & CONCUSSION TIMEOUTS

See Page 98 in the NCAA Rules Book for proper hand signals. Signals on the mat should be

directed toward the table using the color for the stoppage time.

Unless it’s obvious, confirm with the wrestler that they need injury time.

The Official should stay in a position to see both wrestlers, coaches, and the clock.

Remember, coaching the injured wrestler is not permitted, and it is good practice to

remind the coach of that. This would fall under Control of Mat Violation.

Tell the coach when there is one minute left, 30 seconds and 15 seconds.

Use Signal #3 to indicate when the Injury or Recovery Time stops.

1. Injury Time (1:30 cumulative throughout match)

a. Official will signal (Signal #4) to start the Injury Time once an Athletic Trainer or

Medical Personnel has arrived on the mat.

b. It is critical that the Official knows the proper sequence when a wrestler takes

injury time in all situations. Make sure wrestlers restart in the proper position.

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2. Recovery Time (2:00 per instance)

a. Official will signal (Signal #5) to start the Recovery Time once an Athletic Trainer

or Medical Personnel has arrived on the mat.

b. Make sure wrestlers restart in the proper position.

c. Recovery time is used when an opponent gets injured as a result of an Illegal

Act, Unsportsmanlike Conduct, Unnecessary Roughness, or a Technical

Violation.

3. Concussion Protocol (Unlimited Time)

a. A good practice is to start the wrestler on Injury Time and inform the Athletic

Trainer that you suspect a possible head injury. Allow for the Athletic Trainer to

assess athlete for a possible concussion. If the Athletic Trainer indicates a

Concussion Timeout, then the Official will need to clear the Injury Time and use

the proper signal to indicate that Concussion Protocol is to begin.

b. It is permissible to document when/if an Athletic Trainer clears their athlete to

continue wrestling after a Concussion Timeout. Have the table write down or

note the electronic scoring system. For example, “At 3:47 into the bout, the

Athletic Trainer from Smith University cleared the athlete to continue

wrestling.”

STALLING – GENERAL GUIDELINES

The most difficult aspect of officiating wrestling is to understand Stalling. You must

develop a philosophy that will assist in most situations. This is where the best Officials are

recognized above the good Officials.

Each wrestler is required to make an honest attempt to stay within the 10-foot circle and

wrestle aggressively, regardless of position or the time or the score of the match. Action

is to be maintained throughout the match by the contestants wrestling whether in the

top, bottom or Neutral position, and both contestants are equally responsible for

initiating action. Contestants must also work to stay on the mat and maintain action in

bounds. It is the responsibility of contestants, coaches and Officials to avoid the use of

Stalling tactics or allowing the use thereof.

Stalling is one of the most subjective calls in wrestling because:

a. No two Officials call Stalling identically.

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b. No two Officials recognize Stalling within the same time frame.

c. Consistency with Stalling is tough due to different dynamics in each match.

Any delays directly related to shoes or shoelaces is an automatic stall call.

It is Stalling when a wrestler backs off the mat, or when either pushes or pulls the

opponent off the mat. One of three calls must be made each time they go Out of Bounds.

NEUTRAL STALLING

1. What to recognize:

a. From Neutral start backing out of the circle without making contact with the

opponent.

b. Continuously avoiding contact with opponent.

c. Preventing opponent from returning to or remaining in-bounds.

d. Playing the edge of the mat.

e. Continuously pushing or pulling with no shot attempt.

f. Repeatedly faking contact without follow-through.

g. Using an underhook or wrist control without a follow-through shot.

h. Collar tie pushing/pulling no follow-through.

i. Single or double underhook without a shot attempt.

j. Wrist control (single or double) without attempt at a shot or to prevent

opponent’s shot.

k. Blocking with a forearm or head in a tie-up with no attempt at shot or to

prevent opponent’s shot.

l. Repeatedly grasping or holding a leg with no attempt at follow-through to

improve position.

m. Repeatedly grasping or holding a leg to prevent opponent from scoring.

n. Repeatedly causing a stalemate.

o. Standing behind an opponent in control of torso without an attempt to finish

on the mat.

p. Controlling a 2-on-1 (Russian Tie) without an attack attempt.

q. Slowly straggling back from OB.

r. Either or both wrestlers interlocking fingers in the Neutral position. Official

shall verbally warn wrestlers to stay out of the lock. If they do not release

the hold, then the first offense is a stalemate – this is a warning to both

wrestlers. Subsequent occurrences may warrant a stall call on either or both.

Be verbal and preventive.

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OFFENSIVE STALLING

It is Stalling when the Offensive wrestler does not aggressively attempt to break down

the opponent. The 5-Second Drop-Down Count is to start when the Offensive wrestler

moves one or both hands below the waist of the Defensive wrestler. See Rules Book for

more details on the Drop-Down Count.

1. What to Recognize:

a. Keeping the heel held to the buttocks for an extended period.

b. Deep waist and wrist with no attempt to improve.

c. Hooking the back ankle of Defensive wrestler for an extended period with

minimal attempt to break opponent down (Western Hook).

d. Staying behind an opponent in a rear standing position without attempting

to return to the mat.

e. Repeatedly using two legs and being unable to turn opponent resulting in a

stalemate or repeated use of cross-body ride with no attempt to improve

position.

f. Running an arm bar with opponent broken down on the mat with minimal

attempt to improve.

2. 5-Second Drop-Down Count:

a. Any time the Offensive wrestler initiates action below the waist with one or

both hands or uses a waist and ankle ride, the Official shall begin a 5-second

Drop-Down count.

b. Whenever possible the Official should use a verbal and visual count to

indicate who is getting the 5-Second count.

c. Be loud and clear when verbally starting your drop-down count.

d. The wrestler has 5 seconds to improve the position and work up. If no

improvement within those 5 seconds, then the match is stopped and Stalling

is called, unless an Escape or Reversal is imminent.

e. Repeated drop-down situations should be called Stalling immediately.

f. If both wrestlers come to their feet, then the Drop-Down count stops.

g. Officials are to also use the same signal as Nearfall whereby the Official

brings their arm into the chest and then extends out and away from the

body on an upward angle. Keep fingers tight together.

h. If the Defensive wrestler initiates action below the waist, then there will be

no count on the Offensive wrestler.

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i. If a TD is finished below the waist of the opponent and the Official feels that

the Offensive wrestler can improve position, but chooses not to, then a

Drop-Down count shall be started after allowing for Reaction Time.

j. If a TD is finished below the waist of the opponent and the Official feels that

the Offensive wrestler cannot improve position, then stop the match and use

the Stalemate signal and restart the match in the center.

k. If the Offensive wrestler initiates action below the waist and the Official has

begun a Drop-Down count, but then the wrestler lets go of both legs

(airplane), the count should stop. If Offensive wrestler immediately re-grabs

either or both legs, then the Official should stop the match and penalize for

Stalling.

3. Side Headlock Count:

a. Like the 5-second Drop Down count, the Side Headlock situation requires a

count whenever the Offensive wrestler encircles the head and arm of the

Defensive wrestler. The count should stop when the Defensive wrestler is

going into a probable Nearfall situation.

b. Whenever possible the Official should use a verbal and vision count to

indicate who is getting the 5-Second Count.

c. Be loud and clear when verbally starting your count.

d. Repeatedly going to the Side Headlock warrants a Stall call.

e. Maneuvers such as the Assassin and ¾ Nelson are also included in the Side

Headlock count.

f. Switching between a Side Headlock count and a Drop-Down count may

warrant an immediate stall call from the Official.

g. Officials are to also use the same signal as Nearfall whereby the Official

brings their arm into the chest and then extends out and away from the

body on an upward angle. Keep fingers tight together.

DEFENSIVE STALLING

The Defensive wrestler must work aggressively to Escape or reverse their opponent.

1. What to Recognize:

a. Does the Defensive wrestler initiate an Escape or Reversal?

b. Once broken down onto the mat, is the Defensive wrestler working to build a

base?

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c. When the Offensive wrestler comes off the hips creating space, does the

Defensive wrestler attempt to take advantage or content to stay down?

d. Does Defensive wrestler attempt to improve their position to try to score?

e. Lying on the mat with elbows tucked into the body.

f. Lying on the mat with arms and legs spread apart (par terre).

g. Grasping the opponent's hands or arms and just holding on.

h. Forehead down on the mat and/or balling up.

i. Defensive wrestler repeatedly crawling out of the 10-foot circle, crawling to

the edge or working toward Out of Bounds with no attempt to improve

position would constitute Stalling.

j. The Official does not stop the match when penalizing the Defensive wrestler

for Stalling.

QUESTIONING & CONTROL OF MAT

1. Do not stand chest-to-chest as it appears more confrontational.

2. Listen first. Let the coach be heard. Coaches are not always wrong.

3. If the coach questions a call – and no change is made – then the coach MUST be

penalized for Questioning.

4. If a coach commits an infraction that requires a Control of Mat Area, then the

Official must penalize that coach accordingly.

5. How the Official penalizes the coach is critical:

a. Go to the center of the mat and calmly indicate and announce the infraction

to the head table.

b. Make sure the coach is aware that they have been penalized.

c. Do not get emotionally involved. Be professional at all times.

d. If a coach crosses the line and Unsportsmanlike Conduct is warranted, the

Official should maintain composure and penalize the coach in the same

professional manner as a lesser penalty.

UNSPORTSMANLIKE CONDUCT

The Official needs to constantly monitor and assess the intensity of the match and

identify whether the athletes are nearing a potentially negative situation. If a situation is

identified, the Official may stop the match and have a quick chat with both wrestlers in

the center of the mat. Be preventive in these situations. It is critical that the Official never

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turns their back to the wrestlers. Always keep the wrestlers in your view. If a situation

cannot be prevented, then the Official is to penalize the offending wrestler(s) in a calm

and professional manner. The Official should also make the table aware of the penalty

and let the coach of the offending wrestler know that their wrestler has received a

penalty for Unsportsmanlike Conduct.

Hands to the Face

In the Neutral position neither wrestler is permitted to put their hands in the eye, nose

and mouth area of the opponent. The penalty for Hands to the Face is Illegal Hold (Signal

#22).

1. Be preventive and verbally alert wrestlers to “stay out of the face.”

2. Official shall penalize the first occurrence, if it warrants penalizing.

3. Official may stop the match and signal Potentially Dangerous to verbally warn both

wrestlers about staying out of the face area.

4. Repeatedly going to the face area warrants penalizing.

5. Inadvertently going to the face through wrestling action does not warrant stopping

the match and penalizing.

CONCLUSION

Good officiating does not start the first day of an officiating career. Rather, it is acquired

after many years and much time on the mat. Watch and learn from the top Officials

either in person, on video, and/or in meeting discussions. With advanced media it’s now

possible to watch hours of wrestling to improve your performance. Officials must put in

the time to gain the valuable knowledge necessary to recognize all wrestling situations.

Mistakes are inevitable, but the Official should learn from those mistakes and work to

prevent making them again. Experience is the best teacher.

Furthermore, there are additional factors that separate and produce high-level Officials.

1. Attitude

Continuous improvement and growth is critical to an Official’s success. Complacency is

the enemy. An Official is always learning, working to improve, and better themselves.

Two things define you as an Official: your patience when you have nothing and your

attitude when you have everything.

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2. Mindset

Ego is the enemy. Take the approach that we are all imperfect and we may not get

everything right – the first time. However, we have tools around us to help us get the

call right in the end. Try not to give your attention to what others do or fail to do; give

it to what you do or fail to do. Focus on being the best version of yourself and

controlling only what you can control.

3. The Team

Officials must strive to work together in a professional manner and treat each other

with respect. It’s not about us, it’s about getting the calls right. Making a mistake is

not the real mistake; not working together and using all the tools/resources to get it

right is the mistake. Comparing, complaining and criticizing will get you nowhere.

4. Mentorship

Finding a mentor who you trust and who can provide you with constructive feedback

can be critical to your growth. Share videos with each other, discuss calls, watch

matches together, and get constructive feedback to aid in your growth. It’s OK to be

vulnerable and unselfish. The goal is to plant trees for others to climb.

5. Quiet Confidence

Great officials are confident because they consistently prepare, analyze and, through

experiences, always strive for improvement and excellence. Perfection is not

attainable, but excellence can be achieved.

6. Humility

Great officials let their actions speak louder than their words. They understand the

sport is first and foremost about the student athletes.

Contributors: Kevin Linich, Matt Sorochinsky, Nick Grosso